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Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu Critiques UK Arms Sales Suspension
Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s Prime Minister, has expressed strong disapproval of the UK’s recent decision to suspend certain arms sales to Israel, labeling it “shameful” on social media.
Following the execution of six Israeli hostages by Hamas, the UK government imposed a suspension on thirty arms licenses aimed at Israel.
— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) September 3, 2024
Netanyahu argued that this decision will not deter Israel’s resolve to confront Hamas, which he described as a terrorist organization responsible for the deaths of 1,200 individuals, including 14 British nationals, during its attacks on October 7.
He emphasized that Hamas continues to hold over 100 hostages, including five Britons. According to Netanyahu, rather than supporting Israel, a democratic ally, the UK’s actions risk bolstering Hamas’s position.
He further asserted that Israel is committed to conducting a just military operation while ensuring civilian safety and adhering to international law.
Netanyahu compared Britain’s wartime stance against Nazism, which contributed to the preservation of civilization, to Israel’s current fight against what he termed Hamas and Iran’s terrorism. He confidently stated that, regardless of British support, Israel will triumph in this conflict and safeguard a shared future.
Updated at 10:45 CEST
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In a recent address, Andrew Mitchell, the shadow foreign secretary, commented on the Foreign Office’s rationale behind the arms sales suspension, suggesting that it appeared to be more of a token gesture than a substantial policy change. He later expressed his disappointment through social media, calling the timing of the embargo inappropriate.
Mitchell’s criticisms continue to resonate within political circles, as opinions remain sharply divided on the issue. Pro-Israeli supporters have voiced anger over what they perceive as slights, while advocates for Palestinian rights argue that the measures do not go far enough.
Israeli Leadership Reacts to UK Arms Suspension
Israel Katz, Israel’s foreign minister, issued a statement denouncing the UK’s stance, reflecting on several recent decisions by the Labour government that he views as problematic. He warned that such actions jeopardize the longstanding friendship between the UK and Israel.
Katz argued that this decision sends a concerning message to Hamas and its allies in Iran, undermining Israel, which he claims operates in accordance with international law and maintains a respected judicial system.
He expressed disappointment concerning the recent actions of the British government, emphasizing the expectation that allied nations would recognize Israel’s lawful conduct, particularly in light of ongoing hostage situations and Iranian threats.
Echoing this sentiment, Katz hopes the enduring relationship between the UK and Israel will continue to thrive.
Political Consequences of Arms Sales Suspension
The ongoing conflict involving Israel and Hamas has significantly influenced the internal dynamics of the UK’s political landscape. Labour’s recent decision to suspend arms sales has stirred considerable discontent across the political spectrum.
Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson criticized Labour, claiming they are effectively “abandoning Israel” and questioned whether they are favoring Hamas’s victory.
In a statement, the Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, condemned the arms suspension as damaging to perceptions of Israel’s adherence to international humanitarian law, particularly during a critical time when families are mourning victims of violence.
John Healey, the defense secretary, reaffirmed the UK’s unwavering support for Israel’s right to self-defense, stressing that this remains unchanged despite the arms sales suspension.
Discussions around the implications of this suspension continue within parliamentary sessions, as political leaders navigate a complex landscape characterized by competing narratives surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Updated at 10:25 CEST
Source
www.theguardian.com